Boating and Fishing

The boat launch and picnic area is located south (downstream) of the Martins Creek power plant. Facilities include tables, charcoal grills and toilets. There is no running water. The area is open from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.

The river current near Martins Creek is considered moderate. However, the Foul Rift rapids are located a short one-quarter mile upstream from the power plant. The rapids prevent upstream boat travel from the access area.

An inscription on a rock near Foul Rift reads, "R + Hoopes 1791 cleared these falls." This proud proclamation is a testament to the difficulty of navigating the Foul Rift rapids. Dropping more than 22 feet in less than a half mile, the Foul Rift is one of the most dangerous sections of the river. The Delaware River Basin Commission rates the Foul Rift as a Class VI rapid — a hazardous rapid. The rapid was created by the river running over a massive ledge of limestone. Depending on the season and the water level, trying to kayak or canoe through the rapids can be very risky due to the sharp rock formations.

According to the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, the section of the Delaware River near Martins Creek is a seasonal "hot spot" for shad and smallmouth bass in May and for walleye in November. Muskie and pickerel can also be caught in this area.

The Fish and Boat Commission maintains a river access area on the Pennsylvania side about four miles downstream at Sandts Eddy, located off Route 611. The Delaware Water Gap is about 16 miles upstream of the Martins Creek Environmental Preserve. A dam on the west side of the Delaware River marks its joining with the Lehigh River at Easton, 13 miles downstream.